A synopsis of Delosperma N.E.Br. (Aizoaceae) in North East Africa and South West Arabia

Starting from fresh studies on D. abyssinicum and D. schimperi in Ethiopia, the members of the genus Delosperma in north east Africa and south west Arabia are re-investigated, resulting in the recognition of seven distinct groups, one of which is described as a new species: D. sawdahense H.E.K.Hartmann spec. nov. from Saudi Arabia. Another group of populations from Eritrea cannot be assessed at present, due to lack of material. A key to the six named taxa is given, and some suggestions for further studies into the origin and evolution of the group are presented.